Tag: benvironmental hazards

When automobile manufacturing attained advancement in the form of assembly line technique, the mass production of cars presented a promise of a better future. Driving a car became an integral part of the proverbial American Dream. When Ford started selling millions of Model T cars, the country experienced economic growth. Additional jobs were created in other industries since owning and driving a car indicated elevation of social status. Moreover, Americans were inspired to work harder so they can enjoy the newfound ability and freedom to travel and vacation in style.

However as decades passed, environmentalists and environment scientists began calling attention to the impact of automobiles on the planet, particularly in the earth’s atmosphere. Although concerted efforts to call attention to the issues and problems  caused by cars, gave rise to government regulations, they were not adequate as solutions.

Why Government Regulations Alone Do Not Suffice in Reducing the Environmental Impact of the Car Industry

The impact of cars on the environment is not just the result of energy consumption and fuel combustion resulting in CO2 emissions. Starting from the point of production, the automotive industry affects the environment, even before fleets of cars reach consumers.

The amount of energy and resources consumed to constantly supply great demands for metal, rubber, plastics, fiber glass, glass and paint cannot be overlooked. Many more need to be supplied even if car manufacturers produce electric cars. Furthermore, the impact is global, as most car materials and components are derived from or produced by mining industries in other countries.

Even the end of a car’s active life does not denote cutting short its impact on the environment. Abandoned cars are not only blight to the environment; they become environmental hazards as the collection of cars in junkyards, can still leak toxic chemicals from metal rusts, oils, lubricants and battery acid on unprotected ground.

The production and supply of petroleum and its by products already create environmental impact, regardless of whether they are burned as fuel by vehicles. Unearthing and extracting fossils, as sources of fuel are energy intensive as well as damaging to nearby ecosystems.

Thank Goodness for Recycling

It’s a good thing that recycling is now supported as a sustainable approach to manufacturing new cars. According to business reports, about 75% of average cars sold today in automobile markets, made use of recycled components, including steel frames. Recycling can also reduce the amount of energy used in procuring new automotive components.

By the way, those looking to buy pre-loved or brand new cars can find the best deals at Earnhardt Auto Centers . You can easily find this car dealer in 17 different locations in Phoenix, Arizona as it ranks high in the list of top 25 automobile dealers in the country.

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